Upcoming Events - San Diego Botanic Garden

Celebrating Environment & Stewardship
The Garden’s largest annual fundraiser was held
Saturday, September 11, 2010. Over 400 guests were
in attendance and $158,000 was raised to support the
Garden’s exhibits and educational programs. The evening began
in the Open Air Pavilion—the Garden’s parking lot magically
transformed into a wonderland of greenery and lights by the
Gala’s Artistic Director, René van Rems. There, guests bid on
garden treasures and unique art pieces in the silent auction,
which raised a record amount thanks to our generous bidders.
Gala guests then strolled through the Garden at sunset,
experiencing great music at every turn, with five bands
performing throughout the Garden. Guests enjoyed feasting
on gourmet fare and drinks from 31 of the best restaurants
and caterers in the region. Each food station was decorated
with exquisite arrangements created by local floral designers.
Guests were welcomed and served by a volunteer team of Eco
Stewards, ensuring that the event was an eco-friendly affair.
With the enthusiastic cooperation of our guests, we were able
to compost or recycle nearly all of our service ware, dishes, and
food waste. Un-served food was donated to Carol’s House, the
Community Resource Center’s women’s shelter.
The evening was capped off with dessert and dancing in
the Open Air Pavilion where Dr. Jodie Holt was honored with
the Paul Ecke, Jr. Award of Excellence. Paul Ecke, III presented
Dr. Holt, Professor and Past Chair of the Department of Plant
Physiology at the University of California, Riverside, with the
Claire Anderson with Frances Hamilton White
the Garden to Honor James Hubbell, renowned
Sculptor, artist, and environmentalist
We are pleased to announce that the 2011 Paul ecke Jr. award
of excellence Honoree is James Hubbell, internationally
known artist and architect. James Hubbell has created
nature-based, inspirational art here at the Garden, and
throughout San Diego and the world. He will be the guest of
honor at the 2011 Gala on 9-10-11. Please plan to join us for
this celebration of nature and art.
Tracie Barham with Denise Godfrey and Sue
Godfrey of Olive Hill Greenhouses
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award. Dr. Holt was honored for her commitment to educating
and promoting the beauty of nature in both traditional and
popular ways, such as her work as the botanical consultant for
the film Avatar.
This year’s Gala guests also set a new record for generosity
in support of our Fund-a-Need project. Over $17,000 was
raised for the new Lawn House Garden. This previously
under-utilized area behind the Lawn House (next to the Lawn
Garden and Gazebo) is already being transformed into a model
of water-wise landscaping that every homeowner can look to
for great ideas. It will also serve as a new venue for weddings
and other events, thereby providing additional revenue for
the Garden. This work is anticipated to be completed in
January 2011.
San Diego Botanic Garden wishes to thank everyone
who helped make the 2010 Gala in the Garden a success. The
Garden appreciates the support of every guest and is grateful
for the generous contributions from our sponsors, cuisine
providers, florists, and auction and in-kind donors. Lastly, we
would like to thank Gala Chair, Jim Ruecker and the dedicated
team of committee members and volunteers for their hard
work and support in making this year’s Gala such a remarkable
event. We encourage you to take a look at the list of Gala
donors and support them with your business. For additional
Gala information, please call 760/ 436-3036 x218.
Event photography by Herb Knuflen, Pat Bellgardt, and Becky Reeb.
Paul Ecke III, Dr. Jodie Holt, Julian Duval,
and Jim Ruecker.
Gala guests enjoying the Lawn Garden party Gail Gluckman, Eco Steward Volunteer Claire’s on Cedros; Floral by Glass Orchid